51�Թ�

"There are many stages of lotus growth on display at the Aquatic Gardens, but to come across two twisted dancing stems of Nelumbo nucifera was unexpected and quite magical."

Ranofer liked nelumbo nuts, but figs were food for the gods, and to him rare as rain in Egypt.

“Now then, let us barter. In exchange for a fig or two I will share my nelumbo nuts, the best you ever ate.”

Then he produced from another fold of his voluminous sash one of the cone-shaped fruits of the nelumbo plant.

Frequently the Ancient joined them, bringing nelumbo nuts and his cackling laugh, and his sly, wise teasing.